By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
A former governor from one of Nigeria’s southern states is reportedly being investigated for alleged links to a group of military officers detained over a suspected coup plot.
Reliable sources who spoke with Daily Trust indicated that security agencies suspect the ex-governor may have financially supported the purported plan, which was said to be scheduled for October 25.
At least two online news platforms, Sahara Reporters and Premium Times had, at the weekend, reported that the sixteen officers recently arrested by the Defence Headquarters for “unprofessional conduct” were being interrogated for allegedly plotting to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Among those detained are a Brigadier-General, a Colonel, and several junior officers, some of whom are attached to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
A senior source confirmed that “the report of the planned coup attempt was true,” adding that there were civilian accomplices under scrutiny. “Yes, that is true. There are civilian accomplices, including a former governor, but the extent of their involvement is being investigated. For now, there are 16 officers involved and in custody,” the source stated.
It was further revealed that the former governor in question, who once worked in the oil and gas sector, is being investigated to determine his level of involvement. Investigators are said to be examining his recent interactions with the detained officers and may summon him for questioning if any substantial connection is established.
The ongoing investigation is reportedly being coordinated by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), with senior officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force on the panel. “Members of the probe panel are very senior officers, headed by a major general. The comprehensive list of officers being investigated is highly guarded,” another source disclosed.
According to findings, the Brigadier-General under investigation hails from Niger State, while the Colonel is from an influential family in Nasarawa State. His father is a traditional ruler and a brother to former governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura.
In Lafia, Nasarawa State capital, relatives of the detained officer expressed deep concern over the situation. “He is my uncle,” a family member told Daily Trust late Tuesday. “The entire family is in distress. I am personally worried… The wife of the officer is worried. Our prayer is may they not be found guilty of the allegation,” the source added.
Additional reports suggest that more military personnel have been invited for questioning over possible direct or indirect links to the alleged plot. “Aside from the former governor, there are other influential politicians from both the north and south being closely monitored,” another source disclosed.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has distanced itself from claims that it mentioned a coup attempt in its earlier communications. In a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ described reports suggesting that Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebration was cancelled due to a coup plot as false and misleading.
The statement, titled “DHQ Never Mentioned Any Coup Attempt”, read:
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup. The report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to categorically state that the claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace. The decision regarding the cancellation of 65th independence anniversary parade was to allow Mr President attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the AFN to sustain the momentum on the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry.
“Furthermore, the DHQ wishes to reassure Nigerians that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public.
“The DHQ calls on all peace-loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents. The FG, the legislature and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development and wellbeing of the nation. Democracy is forever.
“The DHQ urges members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”
Daily Trust